Mission X - Train like an astronaut

‘Mission X – Training like an Astronaut’ is a worldwide educational initiative supported by ESA and the national space agencies of Austria, Belgium, Colombia, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Spain, UK and USA to encourage healthy and active lifestyles among children.

Teams of primary school students (8-12 years old) will learn principles of healthy eating and exercise, compete for points by finishing training modules, and get excited about the world's future in space and the educational possibilities for their own future.

The lessons and activities will be linked to curriculum science and gymnastic with a clear focus on health and nutrition which is part of worldwide curricula.

Everyone is invited to get involved in the ‘Mission X’ challenge. The pilot project has been limited to 9 participating countries for January 2011, and more have joined as observers to support the effort. But even if your school or country is not officially involved yet, all the project content is made available for use in your class or community. Please visit the website www.trainlikeanastronaut.org

You can use the contact form, the blog or our e-mail address (isseducationteam@esa.int) to let us know what you are doing and how you or your pupils are 'training like astronauts!’

‘Mission X – Train like an Astronaut’ is a rare opportunity for international partners to work together on outreach, inspiring kids worldwide with an international vision for space exploration as well as addressing the global health issues of fitness and nutrition.